Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30 Review

Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30
3.3
/ 10
Moisturizing
5.5 Humectancy icon Humectancy
1.1 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
30
SPF icon
SPF
Review

Does Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30 Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30 has to offer:
 
✅ Light moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 3.3 out of 10.
✅ Moderate to high sun protection for daily outdoor activities.

  

Key Benefits of Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30:
 

🔵 Lightweight Moisturizer Suitable for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30 is lightly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 3.3 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Rather humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 1.1 out of 10 and a moderate humectancy of 5.5 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Butylene Glycol (est. ≈3.0%).

This product, when used alone as a moisturizer, can provide light humectant hydration in a fast-absorbing formula with a minimal amount of occlusive ingredients. This could work for people with oily skin who need a basic level of hydration.

💧  A Humectant Add-on for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to oily skin - since it contains a moderate amount of humectants, such a humectant add-on will also positively contribute to the moisturizing efficacy of any skincare routine when used as a step before applying the main moisturizer.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

☀️☀️ Moderate to High Sun Protection for Daily Outdoor Activities

With an SPF of 30, Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30 provides moderate to high sun protection, making it suitable for daily use during moderate sun exposure, such as commuting or light outdoor activities.

This level of SPF offers excellent defense against UVB rays, blocking up to 97% of harmful radiation. When labeled as broad-spectrum, these products also protect against UVA rays, which are responsible for skin aging and hyperpigmentation.

❗️For optimal protection, choose products labeled broad-spectrum to ensure defense against both UVA rays, which contribute to skin aging and pigmentation, and UVB rays that cause sunburn.

This level of SPF works well for skin types mildly prone to sunburn. It is particularly suitable for low-to-moderate UV index environments and non-tropical climates. However, it is not recommended for prolonged outdoor exposure or intense UV conditions. Reapplication every two hours is essential to maintain effectiveness.

📌 Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our AI model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30 to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

If one of your main reasons for choosing Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30 is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, it currently has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains Palmitoyl Oligopeptide and Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, two ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of these ingredients provide insufficient evidence of efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.

While this does not categorically rule out the possibility that these ingredients may reduce wrinkles, their efficacy is not supported by convincing, vehicle-controlled, double-blind clinical studies - at least none that were available to the CreamScan team at the time of publication.

Therefore, these ingredients do not generate the anti-wrinkle rating.

📌 Moisturizers, when used regularly, are proven to prevent wrinkle formation and even reduce existing wrinkles. Therefore, this product, like any other moisturizer, can deliver some anti-wrinkle effects through its moisturizing action.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

Pros & Cons of Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30 to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

✅ When used alone: Provides moderate humectant moisturizing suitable for oily skin
✅ As part of a routine: A humectant moisturizing enhancement, beneficial for any skin type
✅ Lightweight texture
Provides moderate to high sun protection, suitable for light outdoor activities in non-tropical climates
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy
   

Summary: Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30
, when used alone, provides lightweight, moderate humectant moisturizing, making it suitable for oily skin. As part of a moisturizing routine, it offers a subtle humectant enhancement, beneficial for all skin types.
 
With an SPF of 30, Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30 offers moderate to high sun protection, appropriate for light outdoor activities in non-tropical climates.
 
That said, there are some things about Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30 worth noting.
 
If one of your main reasons for considering Dermalogica Prisma Protect SPF 30 is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, its anti-wrinkle efficacy is questionable. None of the ingredients in this product provide substantial evidence of their anti-wrinkle efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.
 
❗️ Fact check. At CreamScan, we are committed to accuracy and fairness. If you spot any errors or something that doesn’t seem right, please click here to let us know. We regularly update the ingredient lists and monitor the latest research on ingredient efficacy to ensure that our information remains as complete and precise as possible.

 

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
60
9
6
4
3
2.5
2
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.15
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Homosalate
Function:
Origin:
Octocrylene
Function:
Origin:
Silica
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Octisalate
Function:
Origin:
Avobenzone
Function:
Origin:
Coconut Alkanes
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Dimethyl Capramide
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate
Function:
Origin:
VP/Eicosene Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
Chlorella Vulgaris Extract
Function:
Origin:
Palmitoyl Oligopeptide
Function:
Origin:
Saccharide Isomerate
Function:
Origin:
Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Oil
Function:
Origin:
Sclareolide
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate SE
Function:
Origin:
PEG-100 Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Cetyl Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Arachidyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Behenyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Benzyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Arachidyl Glucoside
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Methicone
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Citrate
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Geraniol
Function:
Origin:
Limonene
Function:
Origin:
Citral
Function:
Origin:
Polyvinyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Sorbate
Function:
Origin:
1,2-Hexanediol
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
5.5
3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
2.2
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
3.3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 5.5 10
5.5
3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 2.2 20
1.1
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
3.3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 5.5 10
5.5
All humectants
5.5
3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 2.2 20
1.1
All occlusives
2.2
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0
Palmitoyl Oligopeptide
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 1.2 3 No
All antioxidants
1.2
Chlorella Vulgaris Extract
0.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
All soothing 0.3 5 No
All soothing
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %60
Function
Origin
WaterThe most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.
Homosalate
Est. %9
Function
Origin
HomosalateA synthetic chemical UV filter that protects against harmful UVB radiation.
Octocrylene
Est. %6
Function
Origin
OctocryleneA synthetic compound that protects skin against harmful ultraviolet light.
Silica
Est. %4
Function
Origin
SilicaA widely used cosmetic ingredient with the same chemical composition as the sand found on beaches. A common function of silica is its ability to control viscosity. In certain chemical forms, it can effectively thicken cream-style products.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Butylene Glycol

A clear, colorless liquid humectant that draws moisture to the skin. The humectancy of butylene glycol, owed to its two hydroxyl groups, is quite considerable, although not as powerful as glycerin, which contains three hydroxyl groups.

Octisalate
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
OctisalateA UVB sunscreen also known as ethylhexyl salicylate. It is normally paired with UVA sunscreens to provide broad-spectrum protection. Octisalate also protects other ingredients, like colorants and antioxidants, from deterioration due to exposure to UV light.
Avobenzone
Est. %2
Function
Origin
AvobenzoneA popular sunscreen that protects against UVA rays, which cause premature aging and skin cancer. Avobenzone degrades after about 30 minutes of sun exposure and becomes ineffective. It is therefore often paired with UV-filter stabilizers such as octocrylene.
Coconut Alkanes
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Coconut AlkanesAn occlusive moisturizing and emollient mixture that is similar to paraffin. It is produced from coconut oil and can allegedly form a soft, non-greasy film on the skin’s surface. It can be used as an alternative to silicones.
Dimethicone
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
DimethiconeThe most common silicone in skincare. It forms a silky, smooth film on the skin’s surface and can help to prevent water loss. It also aids in wound healing and can treat and soften scars. Dimethicone is considered to be very safe for use.
Glycerin
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Glycerin

The most popular moisturizing ingredient in the world. It is a powerful humectant – cheap yet very effective.

Dimethyl Capramide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dimethyl Capramide
Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate
VP/Eicosene Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
VP/Eicosene Copolymer
Chlorella Vulgaris Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Chlorella Vulgaris ExtractA dried mass of tiny, single-cell green algae. It is widely used as a food source or dietary supplement since it is rich in proteins, amino acids, minerals, and vitamins. This dark green extract is used as an antioxidant agent in skincare.
Palmitoyl Oligopeptide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitoyl Oligopeptide

This is an old INCI name that can refer to several other peptides. They are all short fragments of collagen or elastin and function as signal molecules, telling the skin to repair and restructure the dermis, resulting in anti-wrinkle activity.

Saccharide Isomerate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Saccharide IsomerateA naturally-derived humectant that provides moisturization at low levels and is less sticky than other humectants like glycerin.
Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root OilA fragrant and flavoring essential oil distilled from ginger root. Phytochemicals such as zingerone, shogaols, and gingerols are responsible for its warm, spicy, and invigorating scent.
Sclareolide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sclareolide
Tocopherol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopherol

Simply another name for vitamin E. Tocopherol is a fantastic ingredient and especially beneficial for dry and inflamed skin. It has occlusive moisturizing, emollient, antioxidant, and photoprotective properties.

Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract

An antioxidant green tea extract. In the deeper layers, it slows down the destruction of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid – thus delaying the signs of aging. It also acts as an anti-acne, soothing, moisturizing, and emollient ingredient.

Tocopheryl Acetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopheryl Acetate

An antioxidant derivative of tocopherol (vitamin E). It helps to protect cells from free radicals and UV damage through the conversion to active vitamin E in the skin. It is more stable than tocopherol.

Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Coco-Caprylate/CaprateA naturally-derived emollient ester. It is a blend of caprylates and caprates and, relative to other emollients, is lightweight and dry on the skin. As a result, coco-caprylate/caprate serves as a natural alternative to volatile silicones.
Glyceryl Stearate SE
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl Stearate SEAn emulsifier, where the SE stands for self-emulsifying. Emulsions containing glyceryl stearate SE often impart a smooth, velvety feel upon the skin.
PEG-100 Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-100 StearateThis surfactant is more specifically classified as an emulsifier that produces oil-in-water emulsions. PEG-100 stearate can also be used as a cleansing agent.
Potassium Cetyl Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium Cetyl PhosphateA powerful emulsifier that can even mix particularly problematic water and oil blends. It is also a surfactant perfect for cleansing products that effectively rinse off oil and dirt particles from the surface of the skin.
Arachidyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Arachidyl AlcoholA non-drying fatty alcohol that functions as an emollient, emulsion stabilizer, and viscosity controlling agent. It also produces a mattifying effect when applied in a skincare product onto the skin.
Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dimethicone CrosspolymerA group of ingredients that are typically added to skincare products to adjust the formula. Dimethicone Crosspolymers stabilize a formula, regulate its thickness and consistency and give the product a velvety feel.
Behenyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Behenyl AlcoholA fatty alcohol with emollient properties. It is used as a co-emulsifier and thickener and tends to result in a product with a smooth and creamy application texture.
Benzyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzyl Alcohol

A multifunctional ingredient that is supplied as a clear, colorless liquid. Its main function is as a flavoring agent and fragrance. It also acts as a broad-spectrum preservative, solvent, and viscosity-controlling agent that thins the product.

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideA natural occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient, it is a blend of glycerin and two fatty acids, caprylic and capric acid. It creates an oil-based protective layer on the skin, thereby preventing water loss.
Xanthan Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Xanthan GumA natural multi-functional ingredient that originates from fermented sugars. Xanthan gum acts as a viscosity-building agent to thicken skincare products. It is also an excellent stabilizer and works well to hold other ingredients together.
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate CrosspolymerA synthetic ingredient that is used to thicken water and alcohol. It results in a more lightweight formula and is commonly found in gel products.
Arachidyl Glucoside
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Arachidyl GlucosideA mild cleanser and emulsifier that helps oil and water to mix and form emulsions.
Ethylhexylglycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
EthylhexylglycerinA preservative booster derived from glycerin. It is commonly paired with other preservatives to improve their efficacy. Ethylhexylglycerin is also a humectant due to its chemical base of glycerin.
Methicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
MethiconeA silicone oil that can function as an occlusive moisturizer and emollient. Occasionally, methicone is used as a surface modifier for various pigments to improve the longevity and vibrancy of colorants.
Sodium Hydroxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hydroxide

An ingredient that is able to bring the pH of a product up, thereby making it less harsh on the skin.

Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Trisodium Ethylenediamine DisuccinateA chelating agent that disables harmful heavy metal ions present in skincare.
Citric Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citric AcidA gently exfoliating AHA that helps to remove the top layer of dead skin cells. In comparison to other AHAs, citric acid has been shown to be one of the least effective. It is also very commonly used as a stabilizing and pH-controlling agent.
Sodium Citrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium CitrateA salt of citric acid that has a salty and tart flavor and is used as a fragrance. It is mildly basic, meaning that its addition to a skincare product can adjust the pH upward.
Caprylyl Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylyl GlycolAn emollient that improves product spreadability and offers a silky feel on the skin. It also acts as a preservative booster that improves the efficacy of other preservatives. According to the manufacturer, it is also a humectant moisturizer.
Propanediol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PropanediolAn excellent solvent capable of mixing water with normally water-insoluble ingredients. It also functions as a humectant due to its water-loving alcohol groups. Propanediol can control the viscosity of a product by reducing its thickness.
Geraniol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Geraniol

A fragrant, volatile, plant-based, liquid chemical that can be naturally found in many essential oils (specifically rose, palmarosa, citronella). It has a rose-like scent. It is a potential irritant and may cause an allergic reaction in some people.

Limonene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Limonene

One of the most used fragrances in skincare products. It is produced from the peels of citrus fruits and has a fresh, pleasant, citrusy smell. People who are sensitive to citrus should try to avoid it, or at least do a patch test before using it.

Citral
Est. %0.15
Function
Origin
Citral

A fragrant compound found in many essential oils (especially lemon myrtle and lemongrass essential oil). It has a sweet, lemon-like scent. People with sensitive skin should try to avoid products with citral, or at least do a patch test before using.

Polyvinyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyvinyl AlcoholA synthetic polymer that thickens water to form a gel and prevents other ingredients from separating.
Sodium Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium BenzoateA preservative that usually works in combination with other preservatives. It has to be at low pH (<5.5) to be effective.
Potassium Sorbate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium SorbateA preservative widely used in food and personal care products, available from natural sources or synthetically produced. Potassium sorbate works by inhibiting the growth of yeasts, molds, and some bacteria.
1,2-Hexanediol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
1,2-HexanediolA multi-functional formula helper. It is a well-studied preservtive against bacteria and can help pigments and fragrances disperse evenly in a formula.
Phenoxyethanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhenoxyethanolThe most frequently used preservative in skincare. It is a clear, oil-like liquid synthetic substance that protects products from harmful bacteria and yeast, whilst still leaving skin microflora unharmed. It is confirmed by research to be harmless.